Gladiator II Production Designers Yates and Max Reunite for Epic Sequel
Production designer Arthur Max and costume designer Janty Yates, known for their long-standing collaboration, are once again joining forces for the much-anticipated sequel to the iconic "Gladiator" film.
Yates and Max, who have worked on numerous projects together since the original "Gladiator" in 2004, describe their partnership as a "serious level of collaboration." Their shared vision and mutual respect have played a crucial role in shaping the visual aesthetics of "Gladiator II," starring Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, and Connie Nielsen.
As part of their process, Max often consults with Yates to coordinate color palettes and ensure that the costumes complement the set designs. This organic approach helps avoid clashing colors and maintains a cohesive visual experience for the audience.
Max and Yates credit director Ridley Scott with fostering their creativity. Scott's artistic sensibilities and deep knowledge of art history have inspired their work and allowed them to explore new possibilities.
"He's such a painter, and he's educated me," says Yates. "I've come across painters I'd never come across before, like Jean-Léon Gérôme, whose work was the essence of the first 'Gladiator' movie."
When asked about the challenge of creating a sequel to a masterpiece, Max expresses both trepidation and excitement. "We were on 'Napoleon' when the rumor came out," says Yates. "Ridley asked my co-costume designer, David, to work on it as well, which was a huge help."
Max attributes Scott's ability to capture the magic of the original film to his unwavering determination. "Hats off to Ridley; he really pulled it off," says Max.
Despite their extensive collaboration, Max and Yates still rely on shorthand communication with Scott. "He'll say, 'You remember that other movie we did together? Do it like that,'" says Yates with a laugh.
When asked about genres they would like to see Scott direct in the future, Yates and Max share their hopes and dreams. Yates expresses a desire to explore Tudor England, while Max envisions a glamorous New York City-based gangster movie.